Swisscom and Ericsson are collaborating on end-to-end network slicing for critical communications in a joint project to deploy and explore new use cases for 4G and 5G. The project is based on Ericsson radio access and core networks, and one of the first steps is to test how the functionality can support critical communications over public networks, for example, in the public transport sector.

At Mobile World Congress 2018, the two companies will demonstrate how end-to-end network slicing can be implemented on Ericsson's 4G and 5G network solutions. The demonstration will use commercially available features in the Ericsson radio access network (RAN), such as RAN slicing and quality of service (QoS) control, combined with Ericsson's core network functionality and operations support systems offering, securing the reliability and performance of applications for critical communications, a statement said.

"With Ericsson's network slicing functionality and complementing features, we can leverage existing infrastructure and assets,” said Heinz Herren, Swisscom chief technology officer (CTO) and chief information officer (CIO). “In addition to offering mobile broadband services, we will be able to configure dedicated network slices for various industries, meeting the needs of manufacturing, railway and public-safety companies."

To introduce applications for specific industries, Swisscom is planning to evolve its network and infrastructure to support requirements that are different and more stringent compared with traditional mobile broadband needs.

5G technology addresses the increasing need for speed, capacity and low latency. One example is remote monitoring and control of machines or vehicles, which requires extremely low latency, high reliability and top prioritization in the network. Ericsson's end-to-end network slicing is available on 4G networks for operators to start exploring new opportunities with various industries while gearing up for commercial 5G services.

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